WITH most public firework displays cancelled this year – including the Maldon display at Promenade Park – Essex County Fire and Rescue Service has said it is "preparing for a busier night than usual".

The service is concerned that as more people turn to using fireworks in their own back gardens, accidents could increase.

Will Newman, Head of Prevention at the Essex service, has produced a video on firework safety.

He said: "While most people use fireworks responsibly, in the wrong hands they can cause serious injury. Remember that fireworks are explosives and should be treated with great respect and care.

"We don't want you to remember November 5th for the wrong reasons and especially this year, we do not want to put extra pressure on the emergency services."

"Fireworks should be treated with respect and only used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and the Firework Code."

The ambulance service, a children's burns charity and the RSPCA have all joined the call for extra firework safety this year

Firefighters have been joined by the East of England Ambulance Service (EEAST), the RSPCA and a children's burns charity to issue the plea for extra care in 2020 in the run-up to Halloween and Bonfire Night.

Marcus Bailey, Chief Operating Officer at EEAST, said:

"Celebrating Halloween and Bonfire Night will look different for many people this year, however, our important messages remain: we would ask everyone to enjoy themselves safely, think of others, think hands, face and space in line with Government advice.

"It may not be possible to attend an organised fireworks event this year, so please be extra careful if you choose to have a firework display at home in line with COVID government guidance.

"Please stay safe and help keep our staff free to look after those patients who need us most."

Advice on treating burns from the Children's Burns Club

Martin Palmer from the Children's Burns Club said:

"You can avoid injuries by following the Fireworks Code, but if an accident does occur – remember:

1. Cool the burn with running cold tap water for 20 minutes and remove all clothing and jewellery (unless it is melted or firmly stuck to the wound).

1. Call for help for any burn larger than a 50p coin: 999, 111 or local GP for advice.

1. Cover with cling film or a sterile, nonfluffy dressing or cloth. Make sure the patient is kept warm.

Advice from the RSPCA

Fireworks can also cause a great deal of distress to animals.

In a recent survey, 62 per cent of dog owners reported their pets showing signs of distress during fireworks season, with 54 per cent of cat owners experiencing the same.

The RSPCA has produced a video as part of this year's 'Bang Out Of Order' campaign, which you can view here.